Automotive
Dressed like an American, engineered in Germany, and produced in Poland, the 2016 Buick Cascada tried to make a mark in the compact convertible market in the U.S. but lasted only for one generation.
The Cascada was initially introduced by GM's European arm, Opel, in 2013, based on the Delta II platform developed for the Opel Astra. After significant adjustments to meet American regulations, the Cascada crossed the Atlantic and stood out with its unique styling compared to the rest of Buick’s lineup. The automaker chose not to change the nameplate and kept the European moniker for the U.S. market. Despite fewer engine options in North America, the car suffered from GM’s decision to sell Opel/Vauxhall to French car manufacturer Peugeot in 2017.
Unlike other Buick models, which sport the brand’s signature waterfall grille, the 2016 Buick Cascada featured a European-inspired design with three horizontal slats. The top slat was thicker, housing Buick’s three-shield badge. The organic-shaped headlights resembled eagle eyes, with integrated, boomerang-shaped daytime running lights on the upper outer corners. Beneath, a broad trapezoidal-shaped air intake was flanked by side scoops that housed round fog lamps. Rubber at the bottom of the wrapped-around plastic bumper added convenience by preventing damage from taller curbs.
The design, led by the British Mark Adams in Europe, aimed to give the 2016 Buick Cascada the feel of a budget-friendly, open-top grand tourer. The car’s short front end and cab-forward design gave it a sleek, sporty look. The raked windshield, supported by thick A-pillars, followed the hood. The door panels featured two creased lines that ascended toward the rear quarter panels. Like other convertibles of the time, the Cascada didn’t have a B-post for rollover protection. Instead, it maintained a clean profile, with concealed safety arches behind the rear seats that popped out if necessary. The short deck at the back housed a shark-fin style antenna.
Inside, the Cascada was outfitted with a leather-wrapped interior as standard. The bolstered front seats, designed for European twisty roads, provided adequate support during high-speed cornering. The instrument cluster featured two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer, with additional gauges for coolant temperature and fuel level. The white-on-red TFT display took center stage for the onboard computer. The IntelliLink infotainment system, shown on a seven-inch screen atop the center stack, was complemented by an option for an upgraded stereo with a seven-speaker setup. The back seats didn’t offer the same comfort as the front, but legroom and hip room were adequate for adults. The roof could be raised or lowered at speeds up to 31 mph (55 km/h) in around 19 seconds.
Under the hood, the 2016 Buick Cascada came with one engine option: a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline unit, producing 200 horsepower (203 PS). This engine sent power to the front wheels through a standard six-speed automatic transmission. The adaptive suspension, featuring HiPer struts, provided good handling while ensuring a comfortable ride for its passengers.
Unfortunately, the Buick Cascada didn’t achieve stellar sales. To make matters worse, Opel’s new owner decided to discontinue the Opel Cascada in 2019, bringing an end to Buick's compact cabriolet career. Despite its short life, the 2016 Buick Cascada remains a rare and unique offering in Buick’s lineup.
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